Cardinals Gather in Rome to Plan Funeral of Pope Francis and Elect New Leader

Report By Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

Senior Catholic cardinals are convening in Rome today to finalize the date of Pope Francis’s funeral and begin preparations for selecting the next head of the Roman Catholic Church. The pope passed away on Monday at the age of 88 following a stroke, just weeks after being hospitalized for double pneumonia.

In accordance with the Apostolic Constitution, the funeral is expected to take place between the fourth and sixth day after the pope’s passing — most likely between April 25 and 27 — at St. Peter’s Basilica. A final date will be confirmed during today’s general congregation of cardinals, which began at 9 a.m. local time.

The Vatican is preparing for the arrival of global dignitaries, including heads of state, royals, and religious leaders. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has already confirmed his attendance, calling the late pontiff “a good man who worked hard and loved the world,” despite past differences over immigration policies.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, led the Catholic Church for 12 years, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI in 2013. His legacy as a reform-minded leader and advocate for the poor has drawn tributes from across the world.

Following the funeral, the College of Cardinals will enter a conclave in the Sistine Chapel to elect the 268th pope. About 138 cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote in the secret ballot.

Security preparations are underway in Vatican City as thousands of mourners and officials are expected to attend the historic event.